Den Frie Centre of Contemporary Art
Den Frie Centre of Contemporary Art is a must see in Copenhagen for anyone interested in art and architecture.
Den Frie is closed between exhibitions. Please check the website before going.
Den Frie was founded by artists in 1898 and is one of the oldest venues for contemporary art in Denmark. It is in itself a unique and very beautiful wooden building designed by famous artist J.F. Willumsen.
Den Frie’s fundamental aim is to present the very latest in contemporary art. We host exhibitions by national and international artists, all of which address current issues. The extensive programme of exhibitions and events are evidence of Den Frie’s role as an active platform for living art and art production, and the commitment to contribute to contemporary existence.
With its relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, Den Frie is also a popular meeting place for artists, students, tourists and the many locals who pass by. As a visitor you’ll feel welcome and enjoy having your interest in contemporary art stimulated, whether you’re an art connoisseur or a beginner. On top of which the architecture alone is well worth a visit.
Den Frie also houses the café, Polykrom, where you can enjoy a delicious lunch or a well-made cup of coffee.
Exhibitions (denfrie.dk):
Artificial Optimism, 24. aug - 27. okt. 2024
An inflatable iceberg that breathes slowly, a landscape of waving take-away cups, a circle of bronze sculptures, a printing press cut in half, and a giant aluminum relief shown for the first time since 1974 are just some of the Is Futurism relevant to contemporary art – and how? Artificial Optimism presents works by 18 contemporary artists looking closer at the ideas in Futurism’s early phase and reconsidering what they might mean today, in newly produced works ranging from film to wallpaper, performance, language and sound art. In 1912 the Italian Futurists exhibited at Den Frie as part of their aim to expand the movement not only to all the arts but to every aspect of life and thought. In the following years they broadened the scope from literature and painting to sculpture, theater, photography, music, architecture and design. They also initiated a revolutionary political party prefiguring Mussolinis’ Fascist party that later seized power, but were unsuccessful in their attempt to ever become the aesthetic style of the regime. In a critical confrontation with these futures past the artists in the show explore new models of being in an increasingly technological and unsettled world.
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Opening Hours
02.01.2024 - 23.12.2024:Monday: closed
Tuesday: 12:00 - 18:00
Wednesday: 12:00 - 18:00
Thursday: 12:00 - 21:00
Friday: 12:00 - 18:00
Saturday: 12:00 - 18:00
Sunday: 12:00 - 18:00
Location
Oslo Plads 1
2100 København Ø
Café
Wheelchair Accessible